The weather in Portugal in April is delightful. Spring kicks into gear, bringing warmer days and longer daylight hours. You'll find yourself basking in some lovely sunshine, making it prime time for a visit. While there might still be a stray shower (especially up north), overall, April sees a drop in rainfall compared to earlier months.
Just keep an eye out for those passing showers — especially if you're planning to hit the trails or relax on the beach. You’ll want to watch your step on the roads, particularly in rural areas, if it starts to rain.
On average, Portugal gets about 40-80mm of rain in April, but it usually comes and goes quickly, leaving plenty of sunshine in its wake.
April marks the start of the uptick in tourist numbers, but it's still not as busy as the peak summer months. Prices for accommodations and travel are reasonable, as April falls during the country’s shoulder season for tourism.
Overall, April can be a great time to visit Portugal because it offers delightful spring weather, perfect exploring outside, and fewer crowds to contend with.
Tips from Joel
Portugal Travel Expert
Remember, when dining in Portugal, it's important to be aware that there can be unexpected charges. It's not uncommon for certain items like bottled water or bread to be automatically added to the bill without prior consent. Some restaurants may apply a service charge, typically around 10%, especially in tourist areas or for larger groups. While these charges may seem minor individually, they can add up and catch you off guard if you aren’t expecting them.
The weather in Portugal in April is great for exploring Lisbon © Shutterstock
In April, Portugal welcomes the arrival of spring with mild and increasingly sunny weather. Coastal areas experience pleasant temperatures, while inland regions begin to warm up. Daytime temperatures typically range from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), with some warmer days reaching up to 25°C (77°F). Nighttime lows generally hover between 8°C to 13°C (46°F to 55°F). Rainfall is possible, especially in the north.
In Porto and northern Portugal, April ushers in mild and pleasant weather, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Average lows range from 8°C to 11°C (46°F to 52°F), while highs typically reach between 15°C to 18°C (59°F to 64°F). Spring showers are still possible, but rainfall decreases compared to the earlier months, allowing for more sunshine and blue skies.
Moving down to Lisbon and central Portugal, April showcases the region's charm with mild temperatures and blooming landscapes. Average lows hover around 11°C to 13°C (52°F to 55°F), while highs range from 18°C to 21°C (64°F to 70°F). Rainfall remains low, and the region enjoys plenty of sunny days.
In the southern region of Portugal, including the Algarve, April marks the beginning of beach season as temperatures rise and the sun shines brightly. Average lows range from 12°C to 14°C (54°F to 57°F), while highs reach around 19°C to 22°C (66°F to 72°F). Rainfall is minimal, and the region experiences warm sea breezes.
The island of Madeira continues to enjoy its pleasant subtropical climate in April, with warm temperatures and abundant sunshine. Average lows range from 15°C to 17°C (59°F to 63°F), while highs average between 20°C to 23°C (68°F to 73°F). Rainfall remains low.
Colourful Sintra, Portugal palace Palácio da Pena © Shutterstock
April is often touted as a fantastic time to visit, and it's easy to see why. With its mild weather, blooming landscapes, and a calendar packed with events (more on that below), it's a top pick for many.
Portugal truly comes to life in April, as spring brings mild temperatures and a burst of foliage, with flowers blossoming across gardens, parks, and vineyards. Don't miss the opportunity to visit botanical gardens or take leisurely strolls through parks to admire the colorful flowers in bloom.
April is an excellent time for outdoor activities in Portugal. Consider hiking in the beautiful Douro Valley or exploring the coastal cliffs of the Algarve region. Just remember to bring appropriate footwear and sun protection.
If you're a beach lover, you may find that the water might still be a tad brisk for swimming. That said, Portugal boasts some of the most breathtaking coastal landscapes in Europe, and the beaches are perfect for soaking up the sun and enjoying leisurely strolls along the shore.
While it's not as jam-packed as the peak summer months, April still sees a noticeable uptick in visitors, especially around the Easter holidays. This means you might encounter some crowds at popular tourist spots and beaches, but don't worry – there are still quieter spots to discover, especially in lesser-known regions.
As for costs, April marks the start of the tourist season, so you can expect a gradual rise in accommodation and transportation prices compared to the quieter winter months. However, it's still more wallet-friendly than the peak summer season.
April is a great month to see Portugal because it’s a good balance of comfortable weather and relatively thin crowds.
If you're keen on avoiding the crowds but still want similar weather conditions, consider planning your trip for late September or early October. These months offer mild temperatures and fewer tourists compared to April.
The weather in Portugal in April is great for exploring Porto © Shutterstock
As you gear up for your upcoming trip to Portugal in April, take a look to see if any exciting festivities are happeningsavory in town during that time. Additionally, it's advisable to book your accommodations as early as possible. If you're seeking further inspiration for your trip, browse through our carefully curated list of the best things to do in Portugal.
Semana Santa, or Holy Week, is observed with solemn religious processions and ceremonies in towns and cities across Portugal. From Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday, churches come alive with prayers, Masses, and rituals that commemorate the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It's a time of reflection, devotion, and spiritual renewal for Catholics throughout the country.
Chocolate lovers won’t want to miss the Chocolate Festival, where cocoa takes center stage in various sweet and savoury creations. From chocolate sculptures to decadent desserts, visitors can indulge their sweet tooth and explore the rich flavors and textures of chocolate in all its forms.
Praia da Rocha, Portimao, Algarve, Portugal © Shutterstock
Peixe em Lisboa, or Lisbon Fish and Flavors Festival, celebrates Portugal's rich seafood tradition with a showcase of the country's finest fish and seafood dishes. From grilled sardines to seafood stew, visitors can sample a diverse array of culinary delights prepared by top chefs and restaurants from Lisbon and beyond. Cooking demonstrations, tastings, and workshops add to the gastronomic experience, making it a must-visit for culinary enthusiasts.
Festa das Tochas, or Torch Festival, is a traditional event held in various towns and villages across Portugal, particularly in the Alentejo region. Participants carry torches through the streets, illuminating the night with flickering flames and creating a magical atmosphere. It's a celebration of light, community, and the arrival of spring.
Festa das Cruzes, or Festival of the Crosses, is celebrated in various towns and villages across Portugal, with particular grandeur in Barcelos. Streets and squares are adorned with colourful flower-covered crosses, and processions, concerts, and traditional dances enliven the atmosphere. It's a joyful celebration of faith, community, and the renewal of nature.
Cooking class in Algarve, Portugal © Dre Roelandt
Are you ready to go on your trip? Our tailor-made trips are created by local travel experts and are completely customisable. Plus, while on your trip, you’ll have 24/7 support. Here are some of our Portugal trips:
Or browse our other Portugal itineraries.
Not sure when to go to Portugal? See our guide to other months:
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written by
Dre Roelandt
updated 26.04.2024
